Warner Brothers Academy Theatre 38-04-24 04 Special Agent

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Warner Brothers Academy Theatre – "Special Agent"

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Warner Brothers Academy Theatre 38-04-24 04 Special Agent
Date: December 6, 2025
Guest Stars: Carol Landis, John Ridgely
Summary prepared by: [Summarizer Bot]

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Overview

This episode of Harold's Old Time Radio presents a dramatic adaptation of "Special Agent," originally a Warner Brothers film starring Bette Davis and George Brent, now performed by promising Academy talent Carol Landis and John Ridgely. The story is a classic crime thriller set in the golden era of notorious racketeers, following a determined special agent’s quest to bring a ruthless crime boss to justice, not for murder, but for the simple crime of tax evasion—a plot inspired by real-life law enforcement strategies against mobsters like Al Capone.

The core theme focuses on the dogged pursuit of justice in an era when criminals felt untouchable, and the personal risks taken by those who dared to confront them, blurring the lines between professional duty and personal love.

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Key Discussion Points and Plot Progression

Setting the Stage: The FBI’s New Tactic

• [02:37] FBI Headquarters: The story opens with G-men being briefed on a new government strategy—taking down racketeers not through their violent crimes, but by exposing their income tax evasion.
  • Quote: “We must locate their books, find out... the amount of income they’ve received. Then... indict them for income tax evasion... There’s only one place to begin... at the very top... Alex Carson.” (Narrator, 02:37)

Inside Carson’s Criminal Empire

• [03:43] Carson’s Office: Alex Carson boasts about making illicit profits not only from gambling but from school lunch cons and laundering—illustrating the wide reach of his operations.

  • Quote: "A gambling joint like this is just like owning a gold mine, huh, Alex?" (Bill Bradford, 03:53)
  • “We make more out of the school kids...” (Alexander Carson, 03:57)

• Bookkeeper Julie Gardner finds inconsistencies—$16,000 missing from the books, hinting at internal treachery or embezzlement. Carson reacts coldly, hinting at violent retribution.

The Stakes Become Personal

• [05:15] Julie and Bill Bradford: Julie, loyal but fearful, argues with her boyfriend Bill, a newspaper reporter, about her job for Carson. Bill’s concern for Julie’s safety underlines a romantic subplot and the personal cost of involvement in criminal activity.

  • Quote: "Give Carson the air and let’s go down and look silly in front of the justice of the peace." (Bill Bradford, 05:59)

• Bill urges her to leave Carson, but Julie hesitates due to fear—she alone understands Carson’s coded ledgers, heightening her importance and her vulnerability.

A Murder and a Catalyst

• [07:00] Murder Hits the News: News breaks out that Armitage, Carson’s manager, has been murdered—found in the East River. Julie realizes the timing connects directly to the discovery of the bookkeeping discrepancy, raising the threat to herself.

• [08:28] Bill Brings Info to the Authorities: Bill tells the District Attorney and Chief of Police about Carson's possible involvement and suggests confiscating Carson’s private books as evidence.

Carson Avoids Justice—for Now

• [10:23] Court Scene: Due to lack of evidence (the missing books), Carson’s case is dismissed. Tension increases as it’s clear the authorities are close, but not close enough.

• [11:46] Julie Explains the Wall Safe: Julie reveals Carson has a secret wall safe and only she knows the ledger code, reinforcing her key role.

The Big Reveal: Bill’s Secret Identity

• [13:44] Twist: Bill confides to the authorities—he’s not just a reporter, but a Special Agent with the Treasury Department.

  • Quote: "Reporting's not my real job now. ...William Bradford, United States Treasury Department, Special Agent." (Bill Bradford, 13:44)

• Plan Set in Motion: Bill orchestrates a setup to flush out Carson—he tips Carson about an impending raid, hoping Carson will move the books, making them more vulnerable to seizure.

Julie's Dangerous Role

• [15:34] Julie Offered the Books: Carson, trusting her, asks Julie to take the secret books away for safekeeping—exactly as Bill hoped.
  • Quote: "You're a smart little girl, Julie." (Alexander Carson, 15:56)

Showdown in Court

• [16:49] Trial for Tax Evasion: The prosecution claims to have Carson's books and seeks a recess to produce them; Carson panics, realizing if they have the books, they’ll need Julie to decode them.

• [17:47] Carson Orders Julie Abducted: Carson’s lawyer orders his men to kidnap Julie before the court can reconvene—escalating the danger.

Kidnapping and the Final Confrontation

• [19:15] Julie Kidnapped: It’s revealed in court that Julie has been taken, threatening the case against Carson.

• [20:21] Moral Debate with Carson: Bill and Carson have a philosophical exchange on the corruption of men and the reach of the law.

  • Quote: "The public, Bill, is made up of men. And you can buy 90% of them at your own price. The other 10% have been given their choice of crawling on their bellies and being live cowards or taking it in the belly and being dead heroes." (Alexander Carson, 20:02)
  • Bill’s Retort: "Dillinger didn’t die of old age." (Bill Bradford, 20:21)

• [21:32] Julie and Bill Imprisoned, Facing Execution: Tied up, facing imminent execution, Julie confesses her love for Bill—a tender moment of personal risk.

Federal Agents to the Rescue

• [22:25] Police Break In: At the last moment, the police arrive, apprehend Carson’s men, and rescue Bill and Julie.
  • Quote: “Sounds like somebody breaking the door down.” (Bill Bradford, 22:25)

Justice and Resolution

• [23:01] Aftermath: Carson is finally arrested—this time with “dead to rights” evidence and kidnapping added to his offenses. Julie and Bill can now plan their future together.
  • Quote: “And after that, Mr. Special Agent, I’m going to tie you up for life.” (Julie Gardner, 23:26)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the method of justice:

  • “If we can just prove that he... Armitage went for a swim. This killing... is just another of the crimes Carson’s responsible for.” (Bill Bradford, 08:31)

• Love caught up in danger:

  • “I love you, Bill. And if I listened to you in the beginning, we wouldn’t be tied up in this house miles from anywhere... just waiting.” (Julie Gardner, 21:24)

• The cost of crime:

  • “It’s amazing when you have money and what contempt you have for John Law and John Puppet.” (Alexander Carson, 20:21)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• [02:37] - Government’s tax evasion strategy introduced
• [05:15] - Julie and Bill’s personal and professional conflict
• [07:00] - Revelation of Armitage’s murder
• [08:28] - Bill’s evidence pitch to authorities
• [10:23] - Court dismisses the case for lack of evidence
• [13:44] - Bill reveals himself as a Special Agent
• [15:34] - Julie entrusted with Carson’s secret ledgers
• [16:49] - Tense courtroom drama, books as key evidence
• [17:47] - The kidnapping plot
• [21:24] - Julie’s dramatic confession of love
• [22:25] - Rescue by federal agents
• [23:26] - Julie and Bill’s future hinted at (“tie you up for life”)

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Post-Play Cast Banter & Closing

• [25:42] Wayne Morris joins the cast for a friendly backstage chat about their roles, prior film experiences, and the thrill of performing together.
  • Memorable banter:
    • “Makes me wish I was back at the Academy with you. And that role you played tonight, John, was the kind of thing I like to do sometime. Except the part where you get slapped around!” (Wayne Morris, 25:49)

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Tone and Style

The episode marries suspenseful, brisk storytelling with sharp, period-appropriate wisecracks and genuine warmth between characters, particularly in Bill and Julie’s romance. The tension is leavened by interludes of showbiz camaraderie in the post-play chat, maintaining the charm characteristic of Golden Age radio.

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Conclusion

This episode stands as a fast-paced, engaging crime drama with a satisfying conclusion: justice prevails, and love survives the dangers of the underworld. It exemplifies the era’s blend of hardboiled intrigue and sentimental optimism.

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For Fans Of: "Dragnet," "The Shadow," classic noir, and vintage radio theater
Episode Length: ~30 minutes (ads and sponsorships excluded)

Transcript

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Warner Brothers Academy the Academy of Acting presents Special Agents a dramatic story which encores a thrilling picture which starred Bette Davis and George Brent. Once again you are invited to join the exclusive audience in the Academy Theatre and your host for the evening is Gruen. There are a good many reasons for all manufacturers to work endlessly at improving their products. The best of these reasons is the response which you, the American public, always give to progressive new developments and your appreciation of the companies responsible for them. America's response to the latest outstanding achievement of the Gruen Watch Company has exceeded all our hopes. Of course we refer to the public interest in and the public approval of the new Gruen wrist side Kurtex for men throughout the nation. In a few brief weeks, men have acclaimed this smart new watch to be worn on the side of the wrist as soon as they strap it on. Every man says it's the natural place to wear a wristwatch. Safer, more comfortable, more convenient. And they know that this Gruen wristwatch is made possible and practical only by the revolutionary Curvex movement exclusive with Gruen. Only this patented innovation permits a sturdy full size movement in the sharply curved case. If you have not yet seen this newest of all watches, your Gruen jeweller cordially invites you to try one on in his store tomorrow. It by all means, it's exclusively Gruen.

The curtain rises on the Warner Academy of Acting presentation Special Agent starring Carol Landis and John Ridgeley, two of the most promising youngsters from the talented ranks of the Academy.

The story of Spell has its beginning in the Federal Bureau of Investigation headquarters in Washington, where various agents, or G men as they are commonly called, have assembled before the department head on a serious occasion. I called you men together to tell you that Uncle Sam is launching on a new campaign in the hope of defeating the racketeer. We all know that these racketeers make money. Some of them are wealthy millionaires. And yet we realize that they have been paying little or no income tax. Therein lies the weapon we are now going to utilize that will ultimately deal a death blow to the racket barons. We must locate their books, find out as nearly as possible the amount of income they've received. Then, when we do that, we will indict them for income tax evasion. And I don't have to tell you men of this department that there's only one place to begin our attack, and that's at the very top. You all know, gentlemen, that I speak of. Alex Carson.

[Julie Gardner]

Hello, Mr. Carson.

[Alexander Carson]

Good evening, Julie. Hello, Alex.

[Bill Bradford]

I. I was just showing Julie the books. Well, business was fine this month.

[Alexander Carson]

That's what you say.

[Bill Bradford]

Well, you can see for yourself. It's right there in black and white, isn't it, Julie?

[Julie Gardner]

Yes, well, I'm not through yet.

[Bill Bradford]

A gambling joint like this is just like owning a gold mine, huh, Alex?

[Alexander Carson]

This is piker stuff. We make more out of the school kids.

[Bill Bradford]

You're kidding, aren't you?

[Alexander Carson]

Listen, Armitage, there's half a million school kids in this town paying 15 cents a day for a box lunch. We got the concession tied up.4 cents apiece just to use our boxes. Adds up. Figure it out. Yeah.

[Bill Bradford]

Yeah, I guess it does. You don't do so bad with them laundries, do you, boss? Two cents a pound on all the washing this time. And.

[Julie Gardner]

Mr. Carsten.

[Alexander Carson]

Yes, Juliet?

[Julie Gardner]

There's something wrong here.

[Alexander Carson]

Yes, I sort of figured there would be a little something wrong.

[Bill Bradford]

Now, wait a minute. Can't be anything wrong, Alex. I balance those books myself.

[Alexander Carson]

Go ahead, Julie. Let's have it.

[Julie Gardner]

But they don't balance. These books are $16,000 short.

[Bill Bradford]

That's a mistake, Ms. Skyner. You must have made a mistake.

[Alexander Carson]

You made the mistake, Armitage. I had an idea this was coming. Julie, are you sure your dope is right?

[Julie Gardner]

Oh, yes.

[Alexander Carson]

Then leave us alone. Go on outside.

[Julie Gardner]

Do you want me to wait for you, Mr. Carson, or shall I go on home?

[Alexander Carson]

Go on home, Julie. I'll see you tomorrow.

[Bill Bradford]

Now, look, Alex, I can explain. You see, I made a little mistake. You see, I put down the wrong figure and I rubbed it out, and.

[Alexander Carson]

I made a mistake that I'm going to rub out. Aren't you?

[Bill Bradford]

Have some dessert, Julie.

[Julie Gardner]

No, thanks, Bill.

[Bill Bradford]

What's the matter? On a diet?

[Julie Gardner]

No, Bill. I just wasn't as hungry as usual.

[Bill Bradford]

You were so late in getting here, I thought I had a starving bookkeeper on my hand.

[Julie Gardner]

Oh, I told you. I went over to the club and looked over the book for Mr. Carson.

[Bill Bradford]

Since you've mentioned it. I wish you'd keep out of those joints, Julie. It's going to be a blow up sometime.

[Julie Gardner]

Oh, let's not go into that again.

[Bill Bradford]

Why don't you quit, Carson?

[Julie Gardner]

Julie, you have no right to ask me that. What would you say if I told you to quit being a newspaper reporter? You wouldn't do it, would you?

[Bill Bradford]

Well, you must admit there's quite a difference between being a newspaper reporter and keeping books for a murdering snake like Carson.

[Julie Gardner]

You. You have no proof that he is a murderer.

[Bill Bradford]

I don't need proof. Other than too many guys who find themselves suddenly in the east river full of holes. Oh, Julie, it's just that I. I worry about you so much. And I. I love you so much.

[Julie Gardner]

Going romantic on me, Bill?

[Bill Bradford]

I'm serious, Julie. Give caution the air and let's go down and look silly in front of the justice of the peace.

[Narrator/Announcer]

What do you say, Bill?

[Julie Gardner]

I. I'd rather wait a while.

[Bill Bradford]

I see.

[Julie Gardner]

Honest, Bill, I want to. I've wanted to for a long time, but I'm afraid to take the chance. I didn't know what I was getting into at first. Then he commenced giving me more and more to do until now I'm his personal bookkeeper. And I'm the only one who knows the code the books are kept in.

[Bill Bradford]

You're the only one.

[Julie Gardner]

I don't think even Carson could decipher them without me. If I married you, he'd think there'd be a chance of my talking. He might take it out on you, Bill.

[Bill Bradford]

Yeah?

[Alexander Carson]

In the river.

[Julie Gardner]

Oh, I don't think he'd do that. I know he's a racketeer and a gambler, but not that Bill.

[Bill Bradford]

Well, let's get out of here. I've got to drop by the paper for a few minutes. Want to go with me?

[Julie Gardner]

I'm a little tired. Maybe I'll just go on.

[Bill Bradford]

Tony, give me the check, will you?

[Narrator/Announcer]

It's right in front of you, Mr. Bradford.

[Bill Bradford]

Oh, yeah. Thanks.

[Alexander Carson]

Here you are.

[Bill Bradford]

Oh, thank you, sir. Come on, honey. I'll put you in the taxi.

[Julie Gardner]

Subway's good enough. Better save your money, Bill.

[Narrator/Announcer]

What for?

[Julie Gardner]

Come on, walk with me to the subway.

[Bill Bradford]

Read all about it.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Paper. Paper. Extra.

[Bill Bradford]

Paper. All about the gangland murder.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Extra, Extra.

[Alexander Carson]

Yeah.

[Bill Bradford]

Give me a paper.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Sure.

[Bill Bradford]

Julie, look at this.

[Julie Gardner]

Yes.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Underworld Bullets Riddle.

[Bill Bradford]

Dave Armitage, manager of the 122Club.

[Julie Gardner]

Body of Armitage found clothing in the east river by Bill. Just tonight I was.

[Alexander Carson]

Yes.

[Julie Gardner]

The books. I told Carson the books were.

[Bill Bradford]

Go on, Julie. What happened?

[Julie Gardner]

Nothing.

[Bill Bradford]

Julie, you've got to open up. What do you know about this? Did Carson have any differences with Armitage?

[Julie Gardner]

Yes, he was. I don't know.

[Bill Bradford]

You mean you won't tell?

[Julie Gardner]

I'm afraid to, Bill. Even you. But I suddenly feel a little weak. Bill. Maybe we'd better take that taxi after all.

[Bill Bradford]

Look at those headlines. Armitage Murder Tense in Series of Unsolved Underworld Killings. We know who's responsible, but what can.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We do about it?

[Bill Bradford]

Well, Army's work felt like it's cost tonight. We have a chance of pinning it on him this time, Walter. If we can just prove that he. Ah, yes, if we can just prove. So help me, I'd give 10 years of my life to send Carson to the chair.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes?

[Julie Gardner]

Bill Bradford of the press is here at his field.

[Bill Bradford]

Send him in. Bradford's on his way in here. I wonder what he wants. Probably wants a statement as to why we don't catch the killer this time. Come in. Come in. Bill, you know the Chief of Police. Dodger to a poor teeper. How are you, Mr. District Attorney? Fine, thanks. What's on your mind, Bill? Well, I'm not here for a story, but I've got a hunch you might be able to use.

[Alexander Carson]

Yeah, you figure Carsten, don't you?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Naturally.

[Bill Bradford]

Armitage was Alex Carson's manager of the 122 Club. Now, don't ask me how, but I happen to know that his books were short last night. Carsten discovered it and, well, Armitage went for a swim. This killing of Armitage is just another of the crimes Carsten's been responsible for. And aside from these continued murders, we know Karsten's controlling practically every racket. But what can we do? If you can hang this on him, you might get to the bottom of the whole mess. You're going to pick up Carson, aren't you?

[Alexander Carson]

Yes, on suspicion.

[Bill Bradford]

But we won't be able to hold him. When you go to Carson's office, have a court order with you to confiscate Carson's private book. Yeah, but can we find them? You could try. And if you find those books, you'll have enough evidence to convict Alex Carson for half the jobs pulled in this city.

[Alexander Carson]

Look here, Jonesy, I don't get this. What's the matter with that judge? Why doesn't he get it over with?

[Bill Bradford]

Well, Alex, the judge will take the stand any minute. It'll be the same thing over again. Dismissal for lack of evidence About Armitage.

[Alexander Carson]

Yes, but there's something else. How did those flat feet from the DA's office get an idea about my private books?

[Bill Bradford]

You've got nothing to worry about. They didn't find them.

[Alexander Carson]

No, but they might. Somebody tipped an idea to those flat feet. They couldn't have had one all for themselves.

[Bill Bradford]

Where do you keep those books, Alex? In a safe place.

[Alexander Carson]

So safe that I'm not even going to tell my lawyer about it.

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[Narrator/Announcer]

Gentlemen, the case of the people of.

[Alexander Carson]

The State vs. Alexander Carson has been carefully considered.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And because of lack of evidence, the.

[Alexander Carson]

Case is hereby dismissed.

[Bill Bradford]

There you are, Alex. I told you.

[Alexander Carson]

Yeah, let's get out of here.

[Bill Bradford]

Hello, Carson. I suppose congratulations are in order.

[Alexander Carson]

Hello, Bill. It was a cinch.

[Bill Bradford]

Yeah, you can phone your paper, Bradford. Tell them that Alexander Carson left the courtroom a free man. As usual, I seem to detect a note of sarcasm.

[Alexander Carson]

That's what makes Jonesy a good lawyer. Come on, I'll give you a lift.

[Bill Bradford]

I'm not going your way. It might interest you to know that I've got a date with your blond bookkeeper.

[Alexander Carson]

Oh, I didn't know you and Julie were friends.

[Bill Bradford]

That just proves, Garston, that even you don't know everything. Well, see you later. The next time you have a swimming party, let me know.

[Alexander Carson]

You know, Jonesy, I always liked that guy. Too bad if they had a story in the paper about him.

[Julie Gardner]

Oh, Bill. Bill, I thought you'd never come. What happened? The same old story, I suppose.

[Bill Bradford]

Yeah.

[Alexander Carson]

Case dismissed.

[Bill Bradford]

Lack of evidence.

[Julie Gardner]

Oh, I'm worried sick. I don't know what to do. Bill, do you know what happened that day when the District Attorney's men came? They had a court order, a writ of seizure for Carlson's private books.

[Bill Bradford]

Yeah, I heard about that. They didn't find them?

[Julie Gardner]

No. He has a special wall safe. Nobody knows the combination. But Carsten. He locks them up himself.

[Bill Bradford]

Julie, we've talked about this before and I've tried to tell you what a jam you're getting yourself into. They're gunning for Carsten and they're going to get him. You've got to get out while the getting is good.

[Julie Gardner]

Oh, I can't, Bill. I'm scared. You know, Carson. You saw what happened to Armitage. I can't quit because I'm the only one who knows the code to the entries in the book.

[Bill Bradford]

Julie, listen to me. I don't want to call my paper someday and tell them that a girl by the name of Julie Gardner, who used to keep books for Carson, went swimming in the East River. You know how I feel about you. Well, one day I want you to be Mrs. Bill Bradford. Bill, there's only one thing left to do. Fix your boss. Put him away where he's harmless. We'll not only be doing ourselves a good turn, Julie, but a whole lot of other people, too. What do you say? Will you do it?

[Julie Gardner]

No, Bill.

[Bill Bradford]

I'm afraid it's our only chance ever to have each other. Julie, all you've got to do is tuck Mr. Carson's personal account books under your arm some evening and bring them to Mr. Bill Bradford.

[Julie Gardner]

Then we'll both go for a swim.

[Alexander Carson]

Julie, I. I didn't tell you, but.

[Bill Bradford]

Well, I've got another little job on the side.

[Julie Gardner]

What do you mean?

[Alexander Carson]

Look. Look at this.

[Julie Gardner]

Why?

[Bill Bradford]

Why, Bill, I know no other way to stop Alex Carson if you'll deliver these books to me.

[Julie Gardner]

Oh, how can I do that? I have to turn them over to him at the end of the day's work and he puts them away.

[Bill Bradford]

But I have a plan. Suppose we persuade Mr. Carsten that his present hiding place wasn't any good. Listen, Julie.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Hello, Bradford.

[Bill Bradford]

Nice of you to drop in. Got another hunch. Your last one about Carston's private books was wrong. He hasn't got any. That's where you're wrong. Somebody's gotta keep track of all the dough he takes in on paper. And I know who does. I've got a pretty good idea where he keeps the paper. Now, look, Bradford, you're a good newspaper man, but you know what you're going to say. Your department resents the reporter sticking his nose in where he's not wanted. Well, you asked for it. It's time you should know something. Five years ago, I got tired of writing about crooks like Carson and decided to do something about it. Reporting's not my real job now.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And what is?

[Bill Bradford]

Here are my credentials. William Bradford, United States Treasury Department, Special Agent. Well, this stops me. Yeah, Maybe it's gonna Stop a few other guys. Up till now, Carson has been bigger than the law. That is the law at your command. But he isn't bigger than the federal law. And we're going to use it to put him in the federal prison. That sounds fine, Bill, but how are you gonna do it? Income tax violation. It's a 30 year rap if we can make it stick. When do we start? Now. Can I use your phone?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Help yourself.

[Bill Bradford]

Oh, hello, Julie.

[Alexander Carson]

This is Bill. Hello, Julie.

[Bill Bradford]

You know it was cited. I want you to speak to your boss. Don't tell him who's calling. Just say it sounds important.

[Alexander Carson]

Yeah. Thanks.

[Bill Bradford]

Oh, hello, Carson. You don't know me, but I just got wind of a story going to have company. It seems you didn't pay any income tax and there's. There's some law about it. They're coming down this afternoon to look for your books. Yeah, Again? Sure, I'm on the level. Don't mention it.

[Julie Gardner]

So long.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I don't get the idea.

[Bill Bradford]

Why warn Carson? When a fox is in a hole, you've got to smoke him out. Now, here's what you do. Send your men to Carson's office in about an hour. Tear the joint up. Pretend you're looking for the books. But you won't find them.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Where'll you be so I can keep.

[Bill Bradford]

In touch with you? I'll be looking for.

[Narrator/Announcer]

For the books, too.

And the curtain falls on Act 1 of Special Agents. And the curtain rises on the second act of Special Agents.

[Julie Gardner]

Did you ring for me, Mr. Carson?

[Alexander Carson]

Yes. That call a moment ago. It was a tip off. Julie, as you know, there's been a lot of interest in my private books lately. Maybe it would be better if we hid them someplace away from the office.

[Julie Gardner]

Well, if you're worried, Mr. Carson, maybe I could.

[Alexander Carson]

Could what?

[Julie Gardner]

Well, maybe I could take them away and hide them in my room. Didn't ever think to look there?

[Bill Bradford]

Yes.

[Alexander Carson]

Yes, you could do that. You're a smart little girl, Julie.

[Julie Gardner]

Oh, but I'd rather not, Mr. Carson. I don't want to get mixed up in this.

[Alexander Carson]

It was your idea and I guess you're stuck with it. I'll get out the books and you can take them to your room.

[Julie Gardner]

Well, all right, if it will help you.

[Alexander Carson]

But there had better not be any slip, if you know what I mean. And, Julie, you've been with me quite a while and I need you in my business. I wouldn't want to lose you. So while I think about it, even the smartest bookkeeper is liable to make a Slip in conversation when she's around a guy like Bill Bracket. Oh, I know your friends. But don't see too much of him, if you don't mind. I don't like him.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Your Honor, I demand this case be.

[Bill Bradford]

Dismissed for lack of evidence.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Your client, Mr. Carsten, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for income tax evasion without records.

[Bill Bradford]

What are they using as evidence? We're coming to that. We are going to show by actual figures that the defendant has made and has extorted millions from a tax paying public and never paid off taxes himself.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I object, your Honor, to the prosecution.

[Bill Bradford]

Making extravagant charges against my clients without substantiation.

[Alexander Carson]

If the prosecution cannot sustain his charges, I admonish him to cease declaring them.

[Bill Bradford]

Very well, you, Honor. Then I shall ask for a recess until 2 o' clock this afternoon, at which time we shall submit in evidence Alexander Carsten's personal books containing his earnings and assets.

[Alexander Carson]

That's a lie.

[Bill Bradford]

You can't do it at 2 o'.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Clock.

[Bill Bradford]

Your Honor, the books shall be entered.

[Narrator/Announcer]

As evidence in this courtroom, much to.

[Bill Bradford]

The surprise of the defendant.

[Narrator/Announcer]

The court is in recess until 2.

[Bill Bradford]

O' clock this afternoon.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Hey, Alex, what is this?

[Bill Bradford]

What's he talking about?

[Narrator/Announcer]

I thought you told me those books were safe.

[Alexander Carson]

I thought they were.

[Bill Bradford]

Maybe he's bluffing.

[Alexander Carson]

I don't know. But we gotta find out before 2 o'.

[Bill Bradford]

Clock.

[Alexander Carson]

If they've got the books, they'll have to have Julie, too. She knows the code. She's the only one.

[Bill Bradford]

Do you think she'll be here?

[Alexander Carson]

I think she won't. You see to that. Jones, call up the boys. Tell them to snatch that blonde dame, even if they have to take her right out of the DA's office. I am beginning to put two and two together, Jonesy. That dame's got to be put away. Come on, Carson, let's go. Okay, copper. Don't forget, Jonesy, tell the boys before 2:00'. Clock.

[Bill Bradford]

The court is now in session.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Your Honor.

[Bill Bradford]

Your Honor, without further delay, we submit in evidence the private records, which, by showing the profits made by Alexander Carsten, both legal and illicit, prove that Alexander Carsten is guilty of intentionally defrauding the government. Here are the books, your Honor. Would you please examine them?

[Alexander Carson]

That's not in accordance with court procedure, but I shall, if it is requested. Hand me one of the ledgers, please. Yes, you, Honor.

[Bill Bradford]

This is the evidence, your Honor. And though it may not be comprehensible in its present form, we will establish beyond proof that these are the private accounts of Alexander Carson.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Of course, you, Honor.

[Bill Bradford]

We realize that the entries are of a peculiar nature, but that's because the books are in code.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Can you prove that?

[Bill Bradford]

We can. We have a witness whom we wish to introduce at this time. Your Honor, it's necessary that I interrupt this case. Yeah. What happened, Bradford? The witness, Julie Gardner, she isn't here. She's not in the courtroom. I object, your Honor. If they have a witness, let them produce the witness in court. Bradford, where is she?

[Alexander Carson]

She won't be here.

[Bill Bradford]

We just had word that the witness, Julie Gardner, has been kidnapped.

[Alexander Carson]

Hello, Bill. I've been expecting you a little late, too. I haven't seen you since my trial was postponed suddenly.

[Bill Bradford]

I'll rub it in, Carson.

[Alexander Carson]

You know what's on my mind. Yes, I believe you did tell me once that you had a date with my blond bookkeeper. You'd like another date. Isn't that the idea? Where is she, Carson? I'm afraid you made a nuisance out of yourself, Mr. Reporter.

[Bill Bradford]

You can't get away with this.

[Alexander Carson]

You said that before, but you're the one that looks worried. You know, Bill, I have a hunch that you've been playing a game that's not too healthy for you.

[Bill Bradford]

I've got a hunch, Carson, that you kick John Law in the pants once too often. The public won't stand for it.

[Alexander Carson]

The public, Bill, is made up of men. And you can buy 90% of them at your own price. The other 10% have been given their choice of crawling on their bellies and being live cowards or taking it in the belly and being dead heroes. It's amazing when you have money and what contempt you have for John Law and John Puppet.

[Bill Bradford]

There's only one hole in your argument, Carson. Dillinger didn't die of old age.

[Alexander Carson]

Save those pretty speeches for your newspaper, sonny. Where is she? Carson, Would you like to keep that date?

[Bill Bradford]

Yes.

[Alexander Carson]

All right, Boy Scout, if you want, you can have it. Lefty.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yeah, boss?

[Alexander Carson]

Mr. Bradford wants to take a little trip. The one we were talking about. It seems Mr. Bradford has a date.

[Julie Gardner]

Oh, Bill. Bill, you shouldn't have done it.

[Bill Bradford]

It's better to know where you are and be in a jam like this than to be back in town going crazy.

[Julie Gardner]

But you know what they're going to do to us, Bill?

[Alexander Carson]

Listen, Julie, lean over here.

[Julie Gardner]

I can't any further. The ropes cut my arms.

[Bill Bradford]

Don't worry too much. We have a chance.

[Julie Gardner]

Oh, but I heard them talking. They knew Letty was bringing you out here. Carson called up. They had an old plan I worked for Carson long enough to know what he does to people who double cross him. It isn't pleasant. They don't just shoot you. Oh, no, that's too easy. And you walked right into it, Bill.

[Bill Bradford]

I had to find you, Julie, because this was all my fault.

[Julie Gardner]

Oh, I love you, Bill. And if I listened to you in the beginning, we wouldn't be tied up in this house miles from anywhere, just. Just waiting.

[Bill Bradford]

But Julie, there is a chance. When I came to see Carsten, I had it all planned. And if the federal men follow my instructions.

[Alexander Carson]

Hello, suckers.

[Bill Bradford]

Having a little gabfest, huh? You better talk a lot. Time's about up. Funny how a gun makes a tough guy out of a rat.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Shut up.

[Alexander Carson]

All right, Julie.

[Bill Bradford]

A guy like that'll hit you when your arms are tied. Come on, you two.

[Alexander Carson]

We got a little surprise waiting for.

[Bill Bradford]

You in the other room.

[Alexander Carson]

We'll take the dame for you.

[Bill Bradford]

But we want you to see it, Mr. Bradford.

[Narrator/Announcer]

On account of you. Such a boy's scout.

[Bill Bradford]

What are you gonna do to it?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Ain't you never seen nobody crawl on.

[Bill Bradford]

That belly, begging for mercy?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Begging for you to kill him?

[Julie Gardner]

No, no.

[Bill Bradford]

You remember, Julie. You remember what happened to Tony Santana?

[Narrator/Announcer]

No.

[Bill Bradford]

Stick it up, Julie. Something will happen. Come on in. We're ready for him now. Get going, suckers.

[Narrator/Announcer]

What's that?

[Bill Bradford]

Sounds like somebody breaking the door down.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Sucker.

The cops.

[Bill Bradford]

They followed me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Okay, Bradford, you get yours now.

Pick up your hands. Lifty. Stick em up.

[Bill Bradford]

We got you covered.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yeah, not till I get this.

[Alexander Carson]

Are you all right, Bradford? Yeah, sure.

[Bill Bradford]

But I broke through that door just in time. And how are you, Ms. Gardiner?

[Julie Gardner]

Well, I feel better when you tie me and I can put my arms around Bill.

[Alexander Carson]

Oh, I'll. I'll have you loosen a dippy and.

[Bill Bradford]

There'S nothing to worry about. The towel. They got the whole gang in the front room.

[Narrator/Announcer]

All three of them.

[Bill Bradford]

What about Carson? Ah, they picked him up right after you left. He's down in the courthouse now. And this time they got him dead to rights. The little matter like kidnapping thrown in for good measure.

[Alexander Carson]

There you are, Ms. Gardiner.

[Julie Gardner]

Oh, thanks.

[Bill Bradford]

Now I'll turn you loose. Mr. Bradford.

[Julie Gardner]

I. I'll turn Mr. Bradford loose.

[Alexander Carson]

Oh, sure.

[Bill Bradford]

Well, we'll be waiting for you.

[Alexander Carson]

Hurry up, Julie.

[Bill Bradford]

We've got to finish this job. We've got to meet Coston at the courthouse.

[Julie Gardner]

And after that, Mr. Special Agent. I'm going to tie you up for life.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And the curtain falls on the Warner Academy production of Special Agents. Congratulations are certainly due all around but we'll save that for Wayne Morris to take care of. Yes, Wayne's here in the audience tonight and he's coming up on the stage now.

The Gruen Watch Company joins in this applause for Wayne Morris for as we told you last week, one of the smartest of all men's wristwatches, the new Gruen Victor, is dedicated to this popular young star, the Gruen Victor and its companion, the Gruen Victoria, inspired by charming Priscilla Lane, are outstanding examples of Gruen's leadership in style and beauty. Tomorrow, visit your Gruen jeweler and see for yourself these newest popular watches, both fashioned in the charm and color of natural gold. And you will be amazed that both the Gruen Victor and the Gruen Victoria are priced as low as $29.

Be sure to also see the Gruincurvex, the world's first true wristwatch. Exclusively in the Gruin curve X. You will see the patented full size curved movement, filling completely the graceful lines of the custom curve case and ensuring pocket watch accuracy in a wristwatch. If the beautiful Curvex case were removed, the Curvex movement would still conform to the curve of the wrist. Be sure of the name Gruen G R U E N on the dial of your new watch. And now we introduce a Warner Academy alumnus who does credit to his alma mater. In less than two years, Wayne Morris has made picture after picture for Warner Brothers, which have boosted him along the road to popularity, if reports about his last picture ought to be believed. And why shouldn't they be, Wayne is well on his way right now toward becoming one of the screen's outstanding male screen stars. Audience, meet Wayne Morris.

[Alexander Carson]

Well, thanks a lot, Gil, for those kind words. They kind of give me a lot to work for, don't they? You know, it wasn't so long ago that I was a member of the Academy myself.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes, but that was before Kid Galahad. Wayne, do you know John Ridgely and Carol Landis?

[Alexander Carson]

Sure I do. John and I were surpassing the playhouse together a couple of years back. And I've known Carol around the lot for quite some time. Say, you both gave great performances tonight. Makes me wish I was back at the Academy with you. And that role you played tonight, John, was the kind of thing I like to do sometime. Except the part where you can slap around.

[Narrator/Announcer]

How about you?

[Bill Bradford]

You see, love, honor and behave, Carol. Boy, does Wayne get slapped around in that.

[Julie Gardner]

I saw it the other night, John. He certainly takes a beating. And from a girl. I don't see how little Priscilla Lane could give him such a beautiful Black eye.

[Alexander Carson]

Now, wait a minute, Carol. You know, I didn't do so bad with that shiner of hers.

[Bill Bradford]

But this.

[Alexander Carson]

Really is like old times. Now, John here and I, we made our stage debut together at the Passina Playhouse.

[Julie Gardner]

Well, then, Wayne, we share an interest in John. You know, he and I made our motion picture debut together and women are like that.

[Alexander Carson]

I bet you we're good on it too, huh?

[Bill Bradford]

So you'd notice it. Carol and I play a couple of bits and they're gone before you can say Gruen presents the Warner Academy Theater.

[Julie Gardner]

Well, I guess they ought to save some time in the picture for Kay Francis, Pat o'. Brien. After all, they're only the stars.

[Alexander Carson]

Well, thanks for a swell play. I. I hope you'll come up and see me when I get a chance to play here again.

[Julie Gardner]

Just try and keep us away.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Before announcing next week's show and telling you the names of the guest stars who will appear, let me remind you that gifts of beauty make up one of our finest ways of expressing the real sentiment we feel for those who are dear to us. Perhaps it has been a long while since you fully expressed your affection for all your loved ones. The best possible way to show these feelings that we can't put into words is the gift of a new Gruen Watch. Outwardly, a Gruen watch is today more than ever a thing of rare beauty, a pleasure to wear, a joy to behold inwardly. A Gruen watch contains a watch movement built with the tradition of 64 years adherence to precision standards, the infinitely patient workmanship of sure craftsmen. Remember, for that special person and that special occasion, give the most beautiful of all watches a genuine bruin.

One of the most popular child actresses on the screen is Bonita Granville. But Bonita is now 15 years old, quite the young lady and almost ready for grown up roles on the screen. We're going to give you a preview of what the grown up Ms. Granville will see like next week when we present her and the role created by Olivia de Havilland in It's Love.

[Bill Bradford]

I master.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Also starred in this presentation will be Jane Bryan and Larry Williams. And for a special treat, Pat o' Brien will also come to the microphone for one of the biggest laughs of the season. C. Kate Francis and Pat o' Brien in the comedy success Women Are like that at your local theater this week. And watch for Carol Landis and John Ridgeley in their very first motion picture role. Join us again next week in the Warner Academy Theater. Transcribed from Hollywood, a feature of the Transamerican Broadcasting System.

[Dr. Z]

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